Iwo Road Protest Over Abducted Pupils in Ibadan

Protesters on Monday blocked parts of the busy Iwo Road area in Ibadan, Oyo State, calling for the release of abducted pupils and teachers in the state, drawing attention to Nigeria’s security challenges.

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The demonstration, organised by the Take It Back Movement, disrupted traffic as participants occupied sections of the major roadway, chanting slogans and displaying placards demanding stronger government action against insecurity.

The protesters urged both the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the freedom of 39 pupils and their teachers who were kidnapped in Orire Local Government Area in May.

Speaking during the protest, the National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, Juwon Sanyaolu, said the rally formed part of an ongoing campaign by the organisation to press for the safe return of the abducted victims.

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According to Sanyaolu, authorities have not done enough to ensure their release.

“This protest is a continuation of the actions we have taken since the abduction of the children and teachers in Oyo State,” he said. “We will continue to demand the freedom of all those held captive until they are reunited with their families.”

He added that the movement’s campaign extends beyond Oyo State and seeks the release of kidnapping victims across the country.

“We are calling for the freedom of all abducted persons, regardless of where they are being held in Nigeria,” he stated.

Sanyaolu also criticised political leaders for focusing on preparations for the 2027 general elections while insecurity remains a pressing concern for many Nigerians.

The protest caused heavy traffic congestion around the Iwo Road corridor, leaving many motorists and commuters stranded as demonstrators blocked access to parts of the route.

The abduction of the pupils and teachers has continued to attract public attention, with civil society organisations and residents urging security agencies to strengthen efforts to secure the victims’ release as quickly as possible.